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Tuesday, November 13, 2012

UPDATED: Official: Subaru Releases 2014 Forester Details

After countless spy photos, speculations, and even clandestine photos taken from Subaru's stockyard, Subaru has finally released details on their all-new 2014 Forester which is slated to debut in Japan on November 13 and for the North American market at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Immediately, it's clear the all-new Forester is taking a different approach in terms of design, taking on the new Subaru family look complete with the "hawk eye" headlights and trapezoidal grille. Thankfully, the Forester continues its two-box design just like the previous generation models and not going with a more curvy, oval look. And although it doesn't look it, the all-new Forester will remain roughly the same size as the previous generation model (SH5) but will feature a roomier interior including a flat rear floor. The Forester will run with standard 225/60 R 17 tires while the turbo gains 225/55 R 18.

The Forester will measure in at (LxWxH): 4,595 mm x 1,795 mm x 1,735 mm (1,695 for models without roof rails). The wheelbase will be at 2,640 mm.

Underneath, the all-new Forester will feature two distinct engine families: the FA and FB. The FB engine will power normally-aspirated Foresters and will be available in both 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter configurations (the latter solely for the North American market). It will be made available in both 6-speed manual and Lineartronic CVT configurations. The range-topping Forester Turbo (XT) will have a new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo and will be mated only with a CVT. Of note, the Lineartronic for use in the normally-aspirated Forester will feature 6 virtual "gears" while the turbo will have 8.

The 2.0-liter normally-aspirated Forester will develop 148 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque, while the 2.5-liter model will have 170 horsepower and 235 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the Forester XT will have 250 horsepower (North American model) or 280 horsepower (Japan model) and 350 Nm. Even more interesting is that the new turbocharged engine will have a flat peak torque curve from 2,000-4,800 rpm (North America) / 2,000-5,600 rpm (Japan).

According to Subaru, the suspension is all-new or at least heavily refined, but will still feature the trademark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard. The ground clearance stands at a generous 220 mm for all models.

Aside from the enlarged interior room and cargo area, the all-new Forester will also offer new convenience technology such as smart phone integration, rear view camera, hill descent control, and even an optional Harman/Kardon premium sound system.

For the Japan market, Subaru has launched a new teaser site for details on the all-new Forester: http://www.subaru.jp/countdown/index.html.For the Philippine markets, indications point towards a 2013 launch date for the Forester. Perhaps in time for the Manila International Auto Show in April?

UPDATE: Subaru has finally released more details on the 2014 Forester through their Japan website. Aside from what we already know, here are some additional facts you need to know about the all-new Forester:

The concept of the new Forester revolves around "Peace of Mind" where the key was to "enhance the basic vehicle performance". As such, engineers have improved things such as vehicle stability, ride quality, and noise level thanks largely to enhanced body rigidity.

The Forester 2.0 XT (turbo models) employ a unique front bumper.

A new "clean side sill" design protects passengers from dirt when getting in and out of the car.

The interior features revamped seating for improved visibility for all passengers.

The interior features improved materials with a wealth of infotainment and creature comfort features.

Hill start assist and a power lift gate are available options.

The direct-injection engine for use in the Forester is of Subaru's own design, and not based on a Toyota design. This is called DIT or "Direct Injection Turbo".

The Forester 2.0 XT employs a twin scroll turbocharger rated at 280 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque from as low as 2,000 rpm.

The Forester 2.0 XT has a unique suspension set-up from the non-turbo models with higher suspension rigidity for better stability. This was done through using different damper tuning and enlarged stabilizer diameter.

A new all-wheel drive system called "X-Mode" has been adopted for the all-new Forester. This allows the car to modify different vehicle parameters such as engine, transmission, and even the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). This system also incorporates hill descent control.

SI-Drive is now available across the line. For non-turbo Forester, it comes in two modes: "Intelligent" and "Sport". And for the turbo Forester, it adds an additional "S#" or Sport Sharp mode. By engaging the S# on the Forester 2.0 XT, drivers can enjoy 8 virual gears on the Lineartronic CVT.

Subaru rates the Forester at: 15.2 km/L for the 2.0 i-L and 13.2 km/L for the 2.0 XT and fulfills 2015 Japanese fuel and emission standards.